The East Sydney Hotel

The East Sydney’s main claim to fame is that it has long championed a no-pokies policy. Though that deserves high praise, it's only a small part of what makes this pub great. The interior has been expertly restored to look like its 1856 self, all wooden boards and copper nails and vintage beer posters hanging on the walls, and the place attracts a diverse crowd. On any given night you’ll find a mix of aging wharfies, Darlinghurst yuppies, and young things that have wondered down the road from the National Art School campus. Grab a tap beer – all the usual suspects like Reschs and VB are there alongside a couple of more boutique choices like James Squire pale ale – and head for the fireplace in the corner. Hungry? They’ll do a modest cheese plate or a bowl of soup for $8.50 and if you want something more substantial the friendly staff will probably let you order a pizza to your bar stool.